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Easy Blackened Salmon Sliders

February 7, 2024
Shanika | Orchids + Sweet Tea

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These Easy Blackened Salmon Sliders are your go-to for game day, weeknight dinners, or BBQ snacks! Featuring Blackened seasoned salmon baked to perfection on brioche buns, they're a mouthwatering delight for any occasion + an instant hit at any gathering.

Easy Blackened Salmon Sliders

Get ready to dive into deliciousness with our Easy Blackened Salmon Sliders recipe! Tender salmon meets zesty blackened seasoning, on soft buttery brioche topped with either dairy-free ranch, or a refreshing cucumber dill sauce. Perfect for game day snacks or backyard BBQs, these sliders are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone! Gluten-free option.

Sliders on a brown wood board with hot sauce and a yellow napkin.

I love whipping up Game Day snacks for my friends, and these sliders always hit the spot—even for the pickiest eaters! While I'm a burger fan, I decided to switch things up and make them more 'handheld' these Easy Blackened Salmon Sliders. One thing I've learned about sandwiches or burgers is that the bun is key, along with the meat and toppings, of course. Haha. So opting to pair them with soft fluffy brioche buns adds the perfect touch!

I've kept the toppings super simple with coleslaw and your choice of either a homemade ranch sauce or cucumber dill sauce—all dairy-free, of course! The salmon boasts a spicy yet slightly sweet flavor thanks to the blackened seasoning and honey combo, which y'all are going to LOVE. If you haven't noticed I'm totally obsessed with blackened seasoning right now! Haha. Give Blackened Shrimp Po' Boy, Easy Weeknight Blackened Chicken Tacos, and Creamy Blackened Chicken Rigatoni Pasta a try next!

Overall, these Easy Blackened Salmon Sliders are super easy to make, a great weeknight or weekend option, can be easily personalized with your fave ingredients + can be made into burgers if you prefer, includes bold flavors, with a perfect balance between savory, spicy + sweet, and just plain DELICIOUS for the entire family!

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Why You Will LOVE Easy Blackened Salmon Sliders

  • It's a flavor explosion-- Tangy, smoky, sweet + downright addictive!
  • Crowd-pleasing and perfect for gatherings!
  • Textural bliss, the perfect balance of soft and crunchy.
  • Happiness wrapped between two buns
  • Versatile snack, appetizer, or side option.
  • Boasts of a great dairy-free + gluten-free option.
Blackened salmon baked on a baking sheet with two forks.

What Is A Slider?

Think of a slider as a cute, bite-sized sandwich you can easily hold in your hand. It's made with a small bun and filled with all sorts of yummy stuff like meat, veggies, and sauces. Sliders are perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a fun snack whenever you're feeling peckish!

How To Make Easy Blackened Salmon Sliders

Begin by baking your blackened salmon in the oven. While it cooks, prepare your sauce of choice. Lightly toast your burger buns, assemble everything together, and finally, savor the deliciousness!

Ingredients

BLACKENED SALMON:

  • Salmon. I like to use wild-caught Sockeye salmon for a tastier flavor. If yours are fresh, defrost them in the refrigerator prior to making the sliders and when ready to use, let them sit at room temp for 30 minutes or so before seasoning + baking.
  • Extra virgin olive oil. Feel free to use your favorite high-quality EVOO. My fave tried and trusted brand is California Olive Ranch.
  • Blackened seasoning. Homemade or store-bought. See below for how to make your own!
  • Raw honey. My all-time favorite honey is from the brand Nature Nate's.

SLIDERS:

  • Brioche roll buns. You can also opt for your favorite burger buns. For a GF-friendly option, just substitute with a GF version of this bread.
  • Coleslaw. You can use either homemade or store-bought.
  • Vegan Ranch Dressing. This is your first sauce option. See HERE on how to make it from scratch.

CUCUMBER DILL SAUCE

  • Vegan mayonnaise. I use the brand Follow Your Heart--- It is super creamy and smooth but feel free to add your fave if you prefer. You can also use regular mayo if you prefer.
  • Organic cucumber. Peeled + chopped.
  • Dill. You can use either dry or freshly minced
  • Salt + black pepper. To balance the flavors.
  • Garlic cloves. You'll need about 2 garlic cloves.
  • Almond milk. You can use regular milk if desired or learn how to make almond milk at home.
Sliders on a brown board with hot sauce, a drink, and yellow napkin.

What Is Blackened Salmon?

Blackened salmon is a flavor-packed sensation, where salmon is coated with savory spices (often a little spicy), then seared or cooked in the oven to create a smoky, charred crust. It's a bold and spicy journey for your taste buds, often associated with Cajun and Creole cuisine.

I have complete faith in my Homemade Cajun Seasoning—it's my secret weapon. I even gave it a spin in an Easy Shredded Chicken recipe recently, and it worked like magic. So, naturally, it's the ideal choice for elevating this salmon slider to perfection! You can adjust the spice blend to suit your preferred level of heat and flavor!

How To Make Your Own 'Blackened Seasoning'

This blackened seasoning recipe is as simple as mixing all your spices together and takes just 5 minutes! Here are the simple ingredients that you will need for this recipe - Feel free to customize to your liking!

  • Smoked paprika: Lends a captivating smoky depth.
  • Garlic powder: Elevates savory notes.
  • Onion powder: Adds subtle aromatic undertones.
  • Dried parsley: Provides a touch of herbal brightness.
  • Dried oregano: Introduces a hint of earthy warmth.
  • Dried basil: Evokes a sweet, herbal essence.
  • Dried thyme: Brings a savory, earthy aroma.
  • Cayenne pepper (optional): For those who crave a gentle kick of heat.
  • Sea salt: Enhances taste and seasoning.
  • Black pepper: Adds a dash of zesty heat.

SHOP MY FAVORITE TOOLS FOR BAKING, ESPECIALLY FOR THIS SEAFOOD DISH!

Here, I’ve curated a list of baking + cooking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite dishes, especially with this Easy Blackened Salmon Sliders. Everything from my fave loaf pan, wooden spoons, parchment paper, and more. SEE THEM HERE!

Up close shot of sliders on a brown wood board.

Best Salmon Slider Toppings

Everyone is different when it comes to burger/slider toppings in general, which is why I love using a variety of ingredients--- I kept is really simple with just coleslaw and a sauce but if you want to add in more here are some ideas!

  • Bacon or candied bacon
  • Pineapple chunks (Grilled)
  • Roasted veggies (bell peppers, poblano peppers, jalapeños, etc.)
  • Caramelized onions or fresh onion slices
  • Cilantro or parsley, chopped
  • Green onion, chopped
  • Dill pickles
  • Sour cream or yogurt
  • Avocado
  • Cabbage or arugula
  • Relish
  • Herb roasted tomatoes

How To Know When Salmon Is Cooked?

A cooking thermometer is the most convenient tool for this task. The internal temperature of salmon fillets, taken from the thickest area, should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit before they are considered cooked through. But if you don't have a thermometer no problem! Try grazing the fillet gently with a fork -It's ready to eat when its flesh becomes opaque and easily flakes.

What To Serve With Salmon Sliders

Although this Salmon Sliders recipe is AMAZING all on its own--These additions really elevate this meal to the next level.

And y'all we CANNOT forget about a refreshing beverage to go alongside + cool down some of the spiciness. This Southern Peach Iced Tea or  Mango Lemonade Kombucha Mocktail goes alongside perfectly!

Sliders on a brown wood board with a drink in background.

Easy Blackened Salmon Sliders Recipe Q + A's

Can I Make Salmon Sliders Gluten-Free?

Yup! To make these burgers gluten-free, simply substitute burger buns with great GF-friendly buns.

How to store leftovers?

Place any leftover ingredients in separate tightly sealed containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Warm and Assemble per usual when ready to serve.

Can I make this salmon slider recipe ahead of time?

Yes! All ingredients can be made and individually stored as meal prep and assembled when ready to serve.

Can I use different types of fish for Easy Blackened Salmon Sliders?

Absolutely! While salmon is traditionally used for these sliders, you can experiment with other types of fish such as tilapia, cod, or mahi-mahi to create unique flavor combinations and cater to different taste preferences.

More Delicious Seafood Recipes

If you enjoyed Easy Blackened Salmon Sliders, definitely throw these mouthwatering seafood recipes onto your "must-make next" list:

MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

If you tried this Easy Blackened Salmon Sliders recipe or any other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. And don't forget to tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram  and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea! I love hearing from you!

Up close shot of sliders on a brown wood board.

Easy Blackened Salmon Sliders

February 7, 2024
5 from 1 vote
Get ready to dive into deliciousness with our Easy Blackened Salmon Sliders! Tender salmon meets zesty blackened seasoning, on soft buttery brioche topped with either dairy-free ranch, or a refreshing cucumber dill sauce. Perfect for game day snacks or backyard BBQs, these sliders are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone! Gluten-free option.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serves: 12 sandwiches

Ingredients

BLACKENED SALMON:

  • 1 lb. wild-caught Sockeye salmon
  • 2 Tbsps Extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 Tbsps blackened seasoning, homemade or store-bought 
  • 1 tablespoon raw honey, organic

SLIDERS:

  • Brioche roll buns
  • Coleslaw
  • 1 Vegan Ranch Dressing

SAUCE (OPTION 2): CUCUMBER DILL SAUCE

  • 1 cup vegan mayonnaise
  • ¼ organic cucumber, peeled + chopped
  • 1 tablespoon dill, dry or freshly minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt + black pepper
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 2 Tbsps Almond milk (You can use regular milk if desired)

Instructions

TO MAKE THE BLACKENED SALMON:

  • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a small baking sheet with foil paper.
  • Season your rinsed and patted dry salmon with the olive oil, honey, + blackened seasoning, rubbing everything atop salmon until completely coated. Add all salmon to baking sheet, cover with foil paper and roast (on the top rack) for 15-20 minutes or until fully cooked through. NOTE: When done, salmon should "flake apart" when touched gently.

TO MAKE THE SAUCE:

  • See my recipe for Vegan Ranch Dressing for steps. To make the Option 2 sauce: Cucumber Dill Sauce, add all ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes. NOTE: Ad additional milk, 1 tablespoon a time if needed).

TO ASSEMBLE:

  • To toast the buns: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and let it melt. Add the buns to heated skillet (inside faced down) and let them brown until toasted and golden. Remove from heat.
  • To assemble, prepare your roll buns, top each with shredded blackened salmon, coleslaw, and vegan ranch or cucumber dill sauce. Repeat until all servings are made. Serve with your favorite side----fries, sweet potato fries, wedges, salad, or whatever! Enjoy.
  • Bon Appetit!

Tips & Tricks

  • STORAGE: Place any leftover ingredients in separate tightly sealed containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Warm and Assemble per usual when ready to serve.
  • MAKE AHEAD: All ingredients can be made and individually stored as meal prep and assembled when ready to serve.
  • GLUTEN-FREE OPTION: To make these sliders gluten-free, simply substitute dinner roll buns with great GF-friendly buns and ensure that breadcrumbs and BBQ sauce are GF-friendly also.
  • TOPPINGS: You can always add your favorite toppings such as greens, tomatoes, pineapple, etc. See Post for more info!

Nutrition

Calories: 144kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 114mg | Potassium: 19mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 0.2g | Vitamin A: 9IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 9mg | Iron: 0.05mg

DID YOU MAKE THIS recipe?

Tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea

Xx, Shanika in script writing

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